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Welcome to the Daxton’s Friends website! Our goal is to serve as a resource for healthy canine pet ownership, and advocate for public safety and animal welfare. Through education, promotional vehicles, and providing resources, we aspire to function as an authority on these topics and serve our communities. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that strives to provide honest and unbiased information.

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52 thoughts on “Home”

antie Sue Sue if you read this I feel bad for daxon’s death and I hope you never erlive that moment with my uncles dog blue one day I begged and begged to go but now I know why she wouldn’t let me go then later that night she showed me pictures of what happened to other kids.Some were lucky to still be alive and be normal but now I know to avode pitbulls

How is this an educational site when there are no experts or scientific peer reviewed studies? Only media reports? Media reports are not a source for statistical information as they are often inaccurate and incomete

“We collected data from The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and MEDIA accounts related to dog bite attacks and fatalities, using methods from previous studies.1-3 The HSUS maintains a registry of human DBRF, including date of death, age and sex of decedent, city and state of attack, number and breeds of dogs involved, and circumstances relating to the attack. To supplement HSUS reports, as in the past, a database was searched for accounts of human DBRF that occurred in 1997 and 1998. Our search strategy involved scanning the text of NEWSPAPERS and PERIODICALS for certain words and word combinations likely to represent human DBRF followed by a review of articles containing those terms. Data obtained from HSUS and NEWS accounts were merged to maximize detection of human DBRF and avoid duplicate reports. One new human DBRF from 1996 was identified in the 1997 and 1998 reports and was added to the existing data for 1996.”

So it’s OK for the HSUS and CDC to use media reports in their research, but not for pit bull victims advocacy groups?

First of all, Yvette, the media does provide a service. Simply google — pit bull killed police — then add ONE of these four words – boy, girl, man, woman. That’s all you need to do. Now LOOK at all of the carnage. Okay now it’s time to check out other breed types………… so replace pit bull with ANY other breed. It’s time to get real. Pit Bulls should never be abused, but they are way too risky to be pets. And here is an article from a Craniofacial Center. There are many more experts who tell the truth about pit bulls. They can act very very loving, but they can turn on a dime, and if it’s you they turn on, you are in a fight for your life. Why should children and others have to face that? And if you care about animals, then what about the TENS OF THOUSANDS of pets killed annually by pit bulls? Please keep caring, but get the facts and work to stop the suffering. …………………………. https://www.cincinnati.com/story/opinion/contributors/2014/06/29/doctor-says-ban-pit-bulls/11709481/

I actually have owned one of these dogs. I was young (18) and it was the early 90’s. I didn’t even really know what a pit bull was- I think I had heard of them but they were not something you saw at that time anywhere I had lived. My boyfriend at the time said someone had puppies for sale- something called a Staffordshire Terrier. We got the runt of the litter- the last one nobody wanted. He was feisty for sure- ripped my boyfriends ear while we were sleeping the first night. He tried to fight our other dog- playfully, but he would grab at his neck. The only thing that was in our favor was that my husband bought a book about the breed at the pet store. Because of the book I learned the history of this dog and that they were not good with other animals in general. When we moved back to out hometown the dog was still just a puppy (a few months old) and I had him neutered as soon as possible. We lived in a apartment in town so I pawned the dog off on my parents like so many young people do. I wanted him to stay at their house because they lived in the country and I didn’t want him to get into trouble in town- and something told me that being an only dog would make him more likely to be dominant and aggressive. Luckily my intuition was right. He lived with several other dogs from the time he was a few months old. Most of the other dogs were bigger and older and they put him in his place many times, and every day. He ended up being a pretty good, nice dog. He was happy and friendly and for the most part a typical terrier type dog (kind of like a full size rat terrier) I told my parents not to play rough with him, no play fighting or anything because I was really worried about making him mean. He ended up living with them until he got old and died. I did a few things right- but for the most part I just got really lucky and some fortunate coincidences allowed the situation to turn out as well as it could have. For one thing, he was about half the size of the pit bulls that I see today (about 35 lbs) He was neutered early, and he was kept in line by the other dogs while he was growing up. However, I would never, ever take the chance again that I took as a naïve 18 year old. I would never tell someone that because my dog was nice that their pain, fear, and heartache does not count. I would never say that because that dog was nice ALL pit bulls are good unless someone mistreats them or “doesn’t raise them right” No, I just got really lucky. I know some of them are nice and I do feel sorry for them, but as an adult I know that it doesn’t matter if some of them are nice- because when they are not nice they are deadly. I loved that dog and my parents loved him. I’ve owned several dogs since then- nice, small, harmless dogs. Some of them I have loved- but I would gladly and without question trade any of them- and give up the privilege (not right) of owning any dog in the future if it would bring Daxton back, or any of the children that have been killed by dogs. That is the difference between being an adult and being an entitled, ignorant, overgrown child. I would never put my desire to own a pet over a child’s life.

happy to lend a statement- I was one of the surgeon’s interview in the 5th Estate documentary- and I am so sorry what your family has been through- and the only thing we, as healthcare providers, and surgeons who see the worst of these injuries is prevention going forward- which I what I completely advocate. In my view, and as the pre-ponderance of data across the world demonstrates, pit-bull breeds and children do not mix well and therefore- should not– the potential downside is far too great for the upside of owning a sweet Pitbull when there are NUMEROUS other breeds to chose from.

I have owned a lot of different breeds of dogs in my lifetime. Currently have a Chihuahua, Chow mix and a beagle puppy. While I will say my Chihuahua has bit the most, never a scar never blood. I wish I could say the same about my pitty we had to put down.

We had her for 2 years since she was a pup. One day she just snapped and started attacking the dogs she lived with her entire life. Here is my pitbull story.

3 kids and 5 adults all in the same living room, the dogs were blocked as they have full run of the house besides our living room. The 2 bigger dogs Luna(chow mix) and deedee(pitbull) were both laying in the dining room on the dogs beds. We were all laughing watching tv and talking all of a sudden my friend let out a horrible scream and I could hear my chow crying out. Our pitbull that we raised, hand fed, slept with, had pictures done with, socalized and even took to paid training was trying to rip my dog apart. Mouth full of fur just tearing her up. I tried to break it up and my pit took a chomp on my leg. It took 3 people to get the dog to leave me and Luna alone. Luna survived no idea how but she did. I have a nice scar but also lived.
THERE WAS NO WARNING, THERE WAS NO FIGHT, NO GROWL, NO BARK AND NO WAY OF KNOWING WHAT WOULD HAPPEN.

I have a huge fenced yard and a doggie door. They lived together for 2 years. I never beat my dog, I never starved my dog, my dog wasn’t a fighting dog, my dog never went without, she wasn’t locked up and she had no reason to attack like that. She plain and simple just snapped.

The only thing out of all this that makes me feel better is that it wasn’t one of my 4 children.

I am not an expert at all, but I notice that “cropping” the ears is still in fashion. This does affect the dog and I am suggesting that those doing this procedure should also be liable for the dog’s actions afterward.
Also, the American pitbull seems to be bred more for violence compared to its UK relative the Staffordshire terrier. Perhaps a ban on breeding the specific American dog would be more helpful.

I agree that though most pitbulls and other aggressive breeds are just fine and dandy, haven’t bitten your kid’s head off yet, would lick you to death and blah, blah blah, but, they are prone to go apes*it at the drop of a hat for no reason. This is the whole reason they are dangerous. I’ve been around dogs my whole life, trained, lived with, have kids around etc. Pits tend to be more aggressive. They just are. It’s a fact. The advoates say “It’s the owner, not the dog” and that only “experienced dog owners” should own one. Or “It’s not a first time dog.” Why is that if they are so harmless? Or the one I love is when they say “What did the kid (presumably one that got mauled) do to bring on the attack?” Are you effing kidding me? Because the kid maybe looked at the dog cross-eyed means it’s the kid’s fault they were mauled? People who ask questions like this in defense of their dog, know nothing about dogs or different breeds. Yes, there are dogs that a kids can kiss, hug, the owner can take their food bowl away without getting killed and guess what, it’s most dog breeds. There’s so many other breeds you could have besides Pitts or other aggressive breeds. Why the hell choose one with a proven shi**y track record, just to give you that “bada$$” or “martyr” image? Especially if you have kids and own one, it’s irresponsible.

I am joining the fight against these vicious breeds. As a pediatrician, and a small dog owner, I have always known the dangerous nature of these animals. I never thought it would happen to me in my neighborhood. At pitbull was in the bed of a truck and jumped out and attacked my little dog. He would be dead if the owner didn’t have a knife and stabbed the dog. My dog sustained severe neck and back injuries, but thanks to so many prayers and love, he should make a full recovery. I am heartbroken to hear Daxton’s story. I want to officially joint the fight against these vicious animals. I don’t want anyone to have to go through what we have gone through.

We certainly need professional people , particularly doctors and vets , to voice their opinion regarding dog attacks and the relevance of breed to risk of attack and severity of injuries , including death . Breed advocates constantly downplay the need for vigilance and safety and any measure that could be taken to alleviate the problem and this has to be addressed and answered intelligently .

I just want to say thank you thank you!!!
I would love to join your project!!

I just recently had a life changing experience. I am still recovering from an attack by an American Bully. They say this breed has been bred to be more docile. They unfortunately paint a very dangerous picture. This attack was unprovoked and no warning. He broke out of his kennel. I was just there to help a friend feed them.
Ended up in the ER three times. The wounds got severely infected which led to surgery.
When we read every single day a new attack or killing from pit or out mix those are only the ones that the media publishes.
So I’m thinking we don’t even have the true numbers!! My attack wasn’t published. No one read about me. So since this has happened I have heard from so many who have extreme fears today from attacks they experienced. They weren’t reported. So can you actually imagine the number of silent victims like me? We are now looking for answers and wanting clarity of why animals we love so much can do so much damage to us. It’s not the bite or wound that hurts. It’s the entire experience. The trauma of learning to not fear something you love. The long recovery time is painful. Not getting to work or do the hobbies you once loved for awhile. My life came to a streaking halt. I am now having to ask serious questions of myself and my journey. I won’t lie to anyone ever again or minimize the potential these breeds have. Stop lying to yourself when you believe it could never ever happen to you!!

I help run my daughter’s business that we named after my service dog that passed on. We board, train and I do in-home behavior modification sessions. I do Workshops to teach people how to raise dogs correctly. I teach you are the source. Your dog is a reflection of you. When I hand a demo dog to a person and ask them to walk them the dog will tell me where that person is on how they feel about themselves. If they are nervous or anxious the dog acts up. Then I hand the same dog to another person and so on. This next person is confident and a leader. The dog responds immediately to that.

I have laid here in my bed since being discharged from the hospital trying to wrap my brain around a new perspective I am now gifted with!!! Yes I say gifted with because it is so easy to believe in something and be closed minded until you yourself experience something different!
I have never been a closed minded person so I can adapt and adjust my mindset a little easier than most. I am now here! Asking myself where do I go from here??!!

Do I keep feeding the lie?? Do I turn away from the clear evidence??

How do I now help the clients who rely on the truth. I realize none of us have all the truth but when faced with an experience that is lining up with so many other experiences I can not and will not turn a blind eye!

I really hope you wonderful souls who are attempting to take up for the pit breeds never do experience such tragedys. I know the love of a dog! It’s gut wrenching to think my sweet boy would ever kill. But if we could pull together somehow and face not only facts but common sense that tells us that we have created something that can and has killed the very hand that feeds them. We are not preventing the next mauling or killing if we are fighting one another. For the love of the breed let’s help find what works and come together.

Daxton’s Friends I want to extend my help. I want to show up in all schools and daycares and whatever else to teach humans how to treat animal. The body language. What to do if you find yourself or someone being attacked. Teach if you choose certain breeds that you will need to take more responsibility. You just brought in a weapon that needs safety precautions not only for your family but those living around you.

Yeah, no thanks. Telling stupid people they need to be responsible doesn’t work. You have to MAKE them responsible. As for fighting type dogs, just ban em, spay and neuter, muzzle and leash em. Euthanize the rest. Make sure anyone promoting them as family pets is held criminally and financially liable.

My nephew was attacked by his grandparents family dog on Fathers Day. My sister, his mother, was close by when the attack occurred and rushed in to block her son. The dog then turned on her. Her husband, by this time had rushed to her aide and fought the dog, a pit bull mix. All three of them sustained injuries from the attack with my nephews the most serious. He was taken by ambulance to the hospital where he had to undergo surgery for many large and deep facial injuries. My sister sustained a deep bite to her upper arm that went through the meat. The he father also sustained biyes and bruises.

My nephew is the second young child this dog has attacked and sent to the hospital!! And the grandparents are still keeping this dog! Even though it has now attacked two of their grandchildren they say it wasn’t the dogs fault! “The parents should have been more cautious!” Animal control was called but when they showed up all they did was put the dog on a 10 day quarantine!!!

This dog is not safe to be around children! There are other children who live in this home! But instead of having this dog put down these people sent it to the vet to. E cared for and have no plans of getting rid of it!

They live in Indiana near Indianapolis. I guess the laws on animal attacks are more lax then they are here in Iowa but something needs to be done before this dog kills someone!

I saw something interesting today. I was just watching a program where they started talking about the abandoned animal situation in Korea. I don’t think I saw a single pit or other kind of bully breed in the entire segment. Not one. Interestingly, I don’t even think they’re banned over there. It must be refreshing to live in a place where animal shelters aren’t overrun with those monsters, nor are the workers trying their darnedest to promote the crap out of them. The segment I watched focused on a different breeds/mixes every few moments. If that had bee done here, they probably would have only shown one pit over and over, or multiple different pit beasts. I would almost be open to buying a dog from a shelter if the ones here were like the ones there, no pits or dogs with pit DNA.

You’re an idiot. The only “monster” is human race. Pit bulls were called nanny dogs for a reason. Let me guess, you jumped on the wagon when it was the German Shepherd and the Doberman, and the Rottweiler, oh and the whatever else uneducated, ignorant individual claimed was a bad dog. Dogs are not the problem its the idiots who do not know how to raise them properly. Then again , this society does not take care of their own children why would they exhibit care with dogs.

The Myth:
To explain vintage black and white photographs that depicted children and pit bulls together, a story was created that back in the Victorian age the pit bull was the “nanny dog”. These so-called nanny dogs were said to be so good with children parents relied on them to babysit and protect them.

The Reality:
One fighting breed advocate created this “legend” in 1971 to distance her breed from its fighting origins. This mention was picked up by a newspaper in 1987 and has since been promoted as historical “fact.”

At no point in history were pit bulls ever “nanny dogs”. There has not been any proof ever given to make this myth a reality. The pit bull advocacy group “BADRAP” (Bay Area Dog Lovers Responsible About Pit Bulls) recently admitted that pit bulls were never nanny dogs and that this myth was dangerous to children. The retraction of the “nanny dog myth” has been highly publicized. Despite the retraction, the myth has lived on and pit bull advocates still repeat it regularly

“Did you know that there was never such thing as a ‘Nanny’s Dog’? This term was a recent invention created to describe the myriad of vintage photos of children enjoying their family pit bulls (click this link for details about vintage photos). While the intention behind the term was innocent, using it may mislead parents into being careless with their children around their family dog – A recipe for dog bites!”

You are 1000% wrong! pit bulls cause about 75-80% of deaths from dog attacks, and kill about one person every 12 days, that doesn’t even count all the maulings. And about 65 dogs are attacked by pit bulls EVERY day. about 1 in 40 pit bulls have attacked another dog. that compares to about 1 in 50,000 of other breeds. Me and my little dog were attacked by a pit bull this week. We are lucky to be alive. These dogs, AND anyone who owns them, are all monsters. Did you bother to read up on the pitbull who attacked a child that the grandparent owned??? This happens EVERY DAY. YOU are the problem and I blame YOU for my injuries, pain, suffering, my poor dog’s pain and suffering. will YOU pay my 4,000$ vet bill???????

They were never called nanny dogs, you willfully ignorant lie spreading pile of sheep shite. Never. That is a fabrication of pit advocates and a total lie.

How can you turn up on a site dedicated to preventing children from being killed and spout your nonsense? How are you not suicidal with shame? How can you natter on about specific breeds and utterly fail to recognize that breeds have a purpose. No amount of belly rubs or your “amazing” training will convince a lab he can’t swim, so why does it work like magic on pits?

You’re a damned fool and a malicious liar. People like you are exactly the reason other folks are dying from dog attacks.

Hi my name is Barbara Merritt. I am going to copy and paste a conversation I started on Facebook. On March 12, 2017, Koda, our Siberian Husky, was attack by our neighbor’s Pitbull. Koda was on his run and on our property. We just about lost him, and he has a long way to go. I was told I needed to get in touch with you guys for support about said incident. The Animal control officer has not got in touch with me even though I have called her three times trying to find out what is to become of the dog who attacked Koda. I would appreciate any information you can give me. Thanks, Barb Merritt
Barbara Merritt added 2 new photos.
8 hrs ·
This past Sunday, Koda, our Husky, was attacked by our neighbors Pitbull. Koda was on his dog run on our property. Our chickens actually started carrying on and alerted us to the attack. I know my neighbors love their dog, but blood has been drawn. We took Koda to Dr. Chism yesterday and was told when the Pitbull took Koda down by his neck, he was going for the kill. The Vet also said this was probably just the beginning.of vicious attacks to come. A beloved and sweet pet crossed the line with the attack.
The Pitbull was in an enclosed area, but had escaped. Our neighbors apologized to us and has offered to pay for Koda’s vet bill. We appreciate this and we are willing to not make them go in front of the judge in April. I have tried to get in touch with the Animal Control person of Garrard County three times to see what they are going to do about the Pitbull. No one calls me back.
I fear for the neighborhood children and other pets. Dr. Chism told us what saved Koda was the fact he had a collar on and Huskies have an extra layer of fur. Kristen Merritt even tried to pull the Pitbull off of Koda and he would not let go. My husband had to get him off Koda.
I know what it is like to have a beloved pet cross the line. We rescued a Border Collie- black Lab Mix dog named Missy. We loved her, and she loved us. Missy became an escape artist and could get put of her kennel. It did not matter what we did. Missy was a true houdini. The day things changed was when she got out one day and refused to come to me. I watched as she ran to a neighbors house as they just got home and she became aggressive with them trying to get out of their car. I knew we could no longer keep Missy anymore. It was so hard, but we had to do what was right.
I do not know what is going to happen about the Pitbull, but if nothing is done. I am starting a petition to have the Pitbull banished from our neighborhood. I am even asking for support from anyone.
We love Koda, and he is such a good dog. I cannot tell you the tears I have cried for him and the Pitbull. I am an animal lover and it breaks my heart for the Pitbull too, and especially his owners. They seem to be good people.
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Michelle Ewing
Michelle Ewing Barbara we are sending Koda and your family continued prayers.
Unlike · Reply · 2 · 7 hrs

Barbara Merritt replied · 1 Reply
Lisa Osborn
Lisa Osborn You cannot live near a pitbull that has attacked, it will only be a matter of time till it happens again. Go over your aco,s head . Selectman or mayor to get this addressed
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I just wanted to say that Tia you’re my hero I watch you Faithfully every day you make me get up in the morning and go out and help it isn’t animals are being abused you make my life worthwhile because that’s what I live for is animals I emailed you a few times I will be coming to New Orleans please my name is Timmy Hill I would love to meet you cuz I think you are a hero you’re my hero my name is Tammy shell I love you too you and I have a husband LOL I’m just saying you I watch you Faithfully in the morning every morning cuz you make me feel good cuz that’s my mission is to save animals like you do I hope I get to come to see your facility when I come to New Orleans because you make my day everyday when I watch your show my name is Tammy she’ll my number is 530-514-6564 I would love to come be able to meet you thank you

On January 17th 2014 my daughter Kara was attacked and brutally mauled to death on her 4th birthday by the very dog we purchased for her at x-mas the year before.

She thought that dog hung the moon, she had tea parties with him, he would sleep at the foot of the couch when she napped, laid his head on her lap for endless petting, she would sing songs to him, demanded he be bought special toys to play with, special pooper scooper so she could clean up after him, cushions for him to lay, she helped walk him with her daddy at night, cried when he wasn’t feeling well as her little heart felt so badly for him, her face lit up from ear to ear when she’d talk about him.

We watched your show (Pit Bulls & Parolees) faithfully, had it DVR’d as a matter of fact, we hung to your every word, admired you for fighting for the respect of the breed, and educating new owners and potential adopters, we clung to your words and followed them like a bible. You are the biggest reason why I allowed that dog into my home. I bought into your theory of poor misunderstood dog, gentle giant, loving family pet, great with children, loyal, snuggly. Our dogs were every one of those things—until the day something snapped in him and he wasn’t.

He attacked my daughter with no warning, no growl, no sneer, no previous anger, no signs whatsoever. You are wrong in what you say, you are wrong in what you preach, you are preaching untruths and many many more children will die because of you. These dogs are unpredictable at best, ticking time bombs that do not care that you have loved them as family and had done all the right things, exercised, fed well, the right fences, vetted, loved beyond measure.

Recently I was invited to be involved in an educational awareness table which was set up in Manchester, Tennessee at an event you were scheduled to attend. As a mother of a child attacked by a family member’s pit-bull, I seize every opportunity to speak with the public about what one bite from a pit-bull looks like, and spread awareness that the breed was NOT bred to look after children while their owners were busy, and that shelter workers/rescue groups should NOT be misleading potential adopters to believe they are “Nanny Dogs”. This is reckless misinformation that is a contributing factor as to why so many people are dying at the jaws of these dogs.

While in Manchester I was afforded the opportunity to speak with many people, mostly shelter/rescue workers, regarding the breed. I was happy to learn that several of them are well educated about pit-bulls and that we are all on the same page. They understand the strength and many dangers associated with these dogs and realize that they are the most neglected, abused and mistreated dogs for a reason. They don’t deny that pit bulls are responsible for more human deaths than all other dog breeds combined, and agree that this type of dog is stronger and more aggressive than other dogs. These people work tirelessly educating potential adopters PRIOR to placing them in homes and ensure proper containment and handling is in place and understood before consideration. I applaud each and every one of these workers and am proud that they are working hard to make Tennessee a safer place to live. None of us want to see another dog abused, neglected or returned because they didn’t know what they were getting and we certainly don’t want another family to suffer a maiming or death due to lack of proper education.

On the other hand, I met some people who were insistent that pit bulls are the same as any other dog and should be treated as such. One woman went on to say that you, Tia Torres, agree with her wholeheartedly and that she “has proof” to back up her statement. She said “all dogs bite” and we should “watch our children better and get over it already” she screamed at us to “JUST STOP BLAMING THE SWEETEST F’ING DOG IN THE WORLD”. Very hostile and angry behavior. It scares me that THESE shelter/rescue workers are in the position place these dogs in homes with children, adding to the maiming and death toll that continues to rise annually, right here in my home state.

When the above mentioned woman was asked about her “proof” that you agree with everything she says, she was happy to boast that you were recently on the John Stewart Show and agreed that they ARE in fact “nanny dogs”. I don’t agree that this is “proof” that you agree with her entire reckless mindset, but after seeing the show and hearing you agree that they were “nanny dogs”, it frustrates me.

This is very sad! Sad on the part that a child was injured and sad because of uneducated bias on your part. Any dog can be vicious! Some of the most vicious are the nasty little ankle biters! I am a pit bull owner. Trust me when I says my dog would not even make a good bait dog! She is sweet, timid and loving. I have an autistic grandson who adores her and she him.It’s not the dog on the end of the lease hyou need to worry about it’s the one holding the leash! Shame on you! I will be praying for all f you. God bless!

In response to Jaime Godbey: It’s not in their nature to be vicious! It is from starvation, abuse, neglect and being forced to fight. sometimes inbreeding to bring out the aggressive genes but that happens in all breeds of dogs. They have all been thru it at one time or another – dobies, german shepherd, rotts. That’s like saying because your spouse is an abusive person your child will be too! God’s blessings!

“When the “experts” in animal welfare organizations excuse pit bull attacks by telling us that “any” dog is capable of killing us, what does this mean for the future of our pets? Can we believe these same “experts” who tell us that therapy dogs are perfectly safe to have around children and the elderly? If explosive and unpredictable aggression in dogs is considered a “normal” part of dog behavior, can we expect to see dogs banned from more and more public places? If injury from a dog attack is considered an acceptable risk for dog owners, will dog ownership eventually be banned by all rental properties, homeowners and condo associations as “too risky”? Will our children grow up believing that all dogs are dangerous and unpredictable, and that they can never approach or interact with any dog they don’t know? Will they be robbed of the joy of relationships with various canine friends?

The “experts” have descended upon Chicago to pledge “tougher penalties” for “irresponsible” dog owners. Yet across the country, owners of dangerous dogs are being punished for attacks with prison time, stiff fines, and probation. None of these penalties have served as a deterrent, or have resulted in a reduction of dog attacks. The reality is that most owners of aggressive dogs don’t really believe their animals are capable of killing someone, until it happens. And punishing owners of violent dogs after an attack does nothing to help victims. Such punishments won’t give a mauling victim back her face and it won’t bring a dead child back to life. That’s why it is time for people who love dogs and humans to stand up and say “enough”.

The plain fact of the matter is that all fighting breeds were genetically selected for their propensity to grab, shake and kill other animals, including their own kind. While Staffies and Bull Terriers have subsequently had the benefit of 100 years of selective breeding as pets and not as fighters (which has changed their genetics for the better), Pit Bulls have virtually no history of being bred as pets and so do not have this advantage. To say that Pit Bulls won’t be inclined to fight and do damage when they are triggered is like saying that Border Collies raised right won’t be inclined to herd! As well-known clicker trainer Gary Wilkes says: “To assert that Pit Bulls are only aggressive if you train them to attack is to deny the existence of every other behaviour-specific breed on the planet… try telling a hunter that he paid $10 000 for a finished field pointer that had to be taught to point. He’ll laugh at you!”

Have you even bothered to read some of the stories posted here? Several mauling and a 4 yr old’s death were from beloved family pets. Not abused or malnourished dogs. I’ll give you the inbreeding argument, but that is what makes the breed so dangerous and unstable. Regardless how loved they are!! Stop trying to perpetuate these untruths. While many are abused, many are not. Many simply snap and turn on loving family members.

There is good and bad in every breed and every owner…to say all pitbulls are bad is wrong as now they are also used as service dogs…yes pitbulls can snap but so do other dogs…i have pit mixes and grandkids and trust them all together…its how there raised and handled

If anything, the fact ‘They aren’t all bad’ is what makes the situation even more dangerous than if they were ‘All BAD”. It is this unpredictability, the inability to tell a dangerous from a non-dangerous pit bull that sees pit bulls as an unsuitable breed for society. If they were simply ‘all bad’, society would simply take strong measures to protect themselves from the breed. Nobody is arguing that all pit bulls are bad, the argument is based on the fact that more than enough pit bulls regularly maim, maul and kill to result in an unacceptable actuarial risk, just like drunk driving. Just like all drunk drivers won’t cause harm or kill anybody, doesn’t mean they aren’t participating in high risk behavior.

People aren’t seeking legislative protection based on the belief all pit bulls are bad, but based on the reality they carry far more risk to innocent people than non fighting breeds of dog. Just as the average person doesn’t want to take the risk of being killed by a drunk driver, the average person also doesn’t want to risk being maimed, mauled or killed by a fighting breed of dog. If they are incapable of understanding such basic self preservation, then there is little hope for them. It must be noted that these people are either risk takers or poor assessors of risk, and quite often have no idea they are putting themselves and others in harms way. It is a battle against stupidity as much as it is dangerous breeds of dog.

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A note about Pit Bull types (American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Pit mixes) — We do not recommend these breeds for service dog training for several reasons: 1). Terrier breeds can difficult to train for service work if the dog has the typical independent terrier temperament. Do not assume that the dog you choose will be the exception; 2). Pit types can be genetically dog aggressive, and this may not show in the dog’s temperament until it becomes an adult. If this develops after you have invested a year in training, you will not be able to use the dog in public; 3). You are training a service dog to help make your life better, not more difficult by facing municipal breed specific legislation, breed bans in rental housing, additional insurance costs, and public access challenges.

The Tampa Bay organization, called Pit Bulls 4 Patriots, was founded with the intention of training rescued pit bulls as service dogs for veterans with PTSD. Unfortunately, by the time the Chicago Pits for Patriots had cited them as their inspiration, Pit Bulls 4 Patriots had already been forced to abandon their original concept. They retooled and renamed themselves Hounds 4 Heros, a program that uses rescued greyhounds instead. Why? The pit bulls were not working out as service dogs. They took too long to train, and they found that pit bulls were too “sensitive” to work with handlers with PTSD because they “reflected” the symptoms of their handler’s PTSD. Evidently, the pit bulls were exhibiting common symptoms of PTSD: anger, irritability, hyper-vigilance, and anxiety whenever their owners did. Irritable pit bull service dogs. N o T h a n k Y o u.

“We became clear that we need dogs who are able to provide calm in any situation rather than matching the handler’s feelings. Also, it is critical that PTSD service dogs can adapt and recover quickly from stress, and to be resiliant enough to do that again and again”

In addition, the wonderful pit bull “washouts” could not be easily adopted so the founders of the organization are now the proud owners of a boatload of pits. Rescue pit bulls, it seems, are not inherently (genetically), suited to service dog work. Unfortunately Hounds 4 Heros not only took down the page the above quote comes from, there is no archive of it either.

However, Hounds 4 Heros has written in depth about just what makes rescued greyhounds such great candidates as service dogs for veterans. Knowing that they were forced to scrap their original concept, it is not hard to read between the lines. It seems that greyhounds possess inherent (genetic) characteristics that that make them good PTSD service dogs and pit bulls do not:

“In our search for the “perfect” PTSD service dog, we are very excited to have Murray join us. Greyhounds tend to be calm, loving but not pushy, caring but not overly sensitive, and are happy to relax and go wherever their person needs them to be.”

This second quote speaks directly to their experience with pit bulls and they speak to both genetic and a reasonably knowable and appropriate early experience for the greyhounds:
Our dogs are carefully selected for having exceptionally calm and stable temperaments. We like working with greyhounds because we do not have to train over any strong genetically bred instincts and drives (such as protection/guarding, being territorial, herding,dog aggression, or hunting). It was surprising for us to learn that although some greyhounds have a strong prey drive, most do not. While growing to adulthood in preparation for racing, greyhounds remain in daily contact with their litter mates and other hounds. They are spared from the jarring loss of their pack at an exceedingly young age, unlike most other dogs, who are bred and quickly sold as pets. This continued companionship with their own kind is extremely healthy for balanced brain development and canine social skills. Since they are being groomed to become racing dogs, their lives are disciplined, with plenty of exercise, routines, and very clear guidance from all the humans they come in contact with. As a result, they tend to be peacefully submissive to people, and easily accept direction. This is very helpful in their new roles as service dogs for our PTSD veterans.

This next quote perfectly explains the very real dangers of trying to shape dogs bred for fighting into service dogs:

We can’t overstate the importance of the balanced minds and good nature of these dogs for their job as psychiatric service dogs. It is critical that our dogs are going to be calm and stable “on their own” without the necessity of great guidance and leadership from theirhandler. When living with someone who has fluctuating weak energy and leadership skills, such as anyone with a psychiatric disorder, a dog will revert to its genetically bred instincts and/or to default behaviors learned in puppyhood. Skilled training can override weaknesses in temperament and high-drive instinctual behaviors, but our PTSD handlers will not be able to maintain training over the top of thesethings. The longer the team spends together, the more the dog’s training would “unravel” and revert to the genetic predisposition of the dog. Examples of this would be an unbalanced German Shepherd who falls back inappropriately to his instinct to guard and bite when threatened, or a herding dog who neurotically begins nipping at the feet and heels of anything that moves around his person. With the greyhounds their default is to either relax, or quietly withdraw into themselves. As a result, they don’t act out, become dangerously unbalanced, or create problems for their handlers or the public. They are able to maintain and return to their trained behaviors with relativeease.These gentle, intelligent, and malleable dogs respond very well to our positive training methods. They are able to perform the many kinds of tasks and work that most benefit people who face the daunting challenge of living with PTSD.

And that is the crucial issue for safety – what instincts (genetically controlled behavior) does the dog default to when not under guidance or under the guidance of someone who is not an expert dog handler.

“As for “therapy dogs,” there is presently no regulation whatsoever on who can call their dog a therapy dog and who cannot. If my dog holding out a paw makes a sick child smile, I can call him a therapy dog. Pit bull owners whose dogs have harmed other animals or people are notorious for slapping little “therapy dog” vest on their miscreants and photographing them making nice to kids to garner sympathy for their dogs and take the focus off their dogs’ victims. It’s a cynical ploy, but it works with gullible animal lovers, as we have just seen.”

I was looking up the presa Canario on your site it states that a bull mastiff is a presa and they are two different breeds..but it says there is 115 bites from a presa.. but if you look it up there is only 2 the other attack nobody knows if it was the pits presas or boxers they were all put down..I read the victim thing on your site and none were a presa they were all pit bulls??? So is the site accurate?? Idk I have two presa and a cane Corso and 2 small children I was just inquiring

Daxton’s Friends for Canine Education & Awareness was formed in honor of Daxton Borchardt, who passed away on March 6, 2013 due to severe injuries sustained in a dog attack. Daxton’s Friends would like to educate the public about the importance of understanding dog breeds and how, with proper education and pet care, the number of dog-related incidents can be reduced.

If Daxton’s Friends for Canine Education and Awareness has shared incorrect information we will efficiently correct or retract statements. There must be substantial evidence that there has been an error in order for corrections to be made. Please e-mail all corrections or concerns to us at our email address on our homepage:

Cane Corso/Italian Mastiff:

~snip~

Both the Roman and the English ancestors of the Cane Corso were bred for hunting large game, to battle in warfare, as a guard dog, and for arena blood ‘sports’. As a hunting dog they were selectively bred to attack game such as wild boar or cougars. One ancient writer described them thus: “not speedy but impetuous, a fighter of great courage and incredible strength, to be employed against bulls and wild boar, undaunted even when confronted with a lion.” They were called canis pugnaces because of their willingness to fight to the death and their function of attacking wild animals. As guard dogs, they were always chained and never had the run of the property, because they were too dangerous. In the arena, they were used in spectacles that involved three or four of these pugnaces / molosser types mauling a bear, a horse or a lion to death slowly, though until the fall of the Roman Empire the victim could also be human (a slave or prisoner)2,3

The Cane Corso once was popular throughout Italy as a guard dog and fighting dog, but now is most common in Southern Italy. These dogs were just another regional variation of the generic fighting molosser type, sharing its ancestry with the pit bull types and other fighting molossers. In later days, this local Italian fighting molosser was back-crossed to the English fighting pit bull types to improve its performance as a fighting dog and to get its present day appearance – as were most of the various regional molosser types across the world. In 2008, the Cane Corso was accepted into the AKC’s miscellaneous class and declared an official ‘breed’. It remains in fact a molosser – pit bull mix.

The fans say that Presa Canarios are calm and affectionate dogs. They may bond well with their owners and can function as companion animals. It is important that all household members are comfortable around the dog and not be timid. This breed has a long and bloody history, and they are still used for dogfighting and shredding large wild animals alive. Like all working breeds, the traits needed for the original tasks are still present. The dogs can maintain their guarding and fighting instincts and have a desire to protect their owners. They are usually extremely territorial.

Presa Canarios need intense early socialization and training to help deter unwanted and aggressive behaviors. As puppies they can be fun and playful. In time, their behavior and personalities can change as they mature. It cannot be stressed too much that the owner must be confident leaders that are dedicated to observant social interaction and obedience training. All members of the household must be comfortable handling the dog and strictly follow the training guidelines. Presa Canarios are often leery of strangers and can act aggressively towards them. Caution should always be taken when introducing them to strangers because their size and strength can make them very dangerous. They are dangerous for other animals, from horses and cattle to other dogs. They cannot be allowed to roam the neighborhood, and they don’t belong at dog parks, since interrupting attacks on other animals can lead them to redirect the attack onto the human who interferes. They should be walked by someone strong and heavy enough to control the dog. You cannot keep a Presa Canario with any dog of the same sex, and they will often attack even a dog of the opposite sex. You must never leave the Presa Canario at home with other animals unsupervised – they must be locked away until you return.

i have a mixed pitt and black lab. I must show him i am boss not by abuse, but firm words, he is very gentle but can be stubborn. I think people adobe this breed and expect no problems/ no dog or breed is the same just like humans, each have their own personality, Good and bad in all things in this world.U must look for the good and try to change some bad, you can not be God, but make a good difference.

My dog (Jude) i got free off of craigslist, he did not know me i did not know him, i was leary on taking him, I thank God everyday i took him , he is my angle with out wings, We have been through alot, he loves to play and act like a puppy at the age of 7, yet he is quite content to be a couch potato
He accepts my issues and i accept his, we are the best friends for life, DO NOT JUDGE THE BREED, JUDGE THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE THE BREED BAD THAT IS THE BOTTOM LINE,

“We thought he was going to be a great dog. He acted like one. He was a good example of a good pit. Until he just decided to attack. He slept in our bed and everything. We never left the kids alone with him. They were never mean to him. We had 5 other dogs including another female pit and they never fought.
It’s NOT the way they are raised. Our dog was well loved and raised. He obeyed all commands and never showed any aggression. These myths almost cost my sons life. How many more people have to get hurt because of a lie?”
Jennifer Arp

“The backdoor was open and suddenly we heard people screaming from outside. Bexar, with zero warning, had lunged at Gavin, and his jaws were clamped down on Gavin’s face, right in front of everyone. Let me point out that there were 8 people within arms reach of Gavin when Bexar attacked. This is a critical point, because I have heard from many people about this, who say that they would never leave their children “alone” with “any” dog. Gavin was far from being alone when this attack happened. Even 4 grown men were unable to pry Bexar’s jaws off of Gavin’s head. Greg ran out and was finally able to get Bexar to release, saving Gavin’s life.”
Maggie Bain

“My brother had raised many pit bulls and one particularly captured our hearts…He was the sweetest well mannered gentle dog I had ever seen…I was always told the aggressive ones were because they were trained to fight and it was all in how they were raised….and if u got them from puppies that was the best way to raise any dog…Both of the dogs who attacked were brought home as puppies and picked out by Kara…These dogs never displayed any people aggression. ..Always sat dutifully by her side, watched her have tea parties, sat by her side when she was sick, thought they were lap dogs and liked to snuggle…..no warnings, no snapping, nogrowling…….just snapped!”
Roxanne Hartrich

“Children are blessings from God. Dogs are animals, I understand peoples love for animals and a lot of people choose or may not be able to have children so have these dogs and treat them as their own kids. They will always be animals, not children. For those who choose the dangerous breeds please stop and think, is it worth taking the chance on it turning and killing our children and family members?”
Johnna Harvard

“Our son was brutally killed by our pet pit bull of 8 years…On April 24, 2013 we lost both our beautiful son Beau and our family dog, affectionately known as Kissy Face. Our dog had been part of our family for 8 years and lived up to her name, for she was eager to overload everyone with kisses. Oh, she was such a very loving and family oriented dog. Kissy Face had been around since her birth on November 22, 2005.
Then with no warning, matters changed dramatically and our world was irrevocably altered. Shortly after Beau’s 2nd birthday, I made a quick trip to the restroom. Just a few minutes later I returned to find my son lying in a pool of his own blood.”
Angela Rutledge

“Her right shoulder was dislocated in a backward fashion, half her right face was missing, as well as part of her right neck, and most of her right ear. My mother had bite marks all over her face, neck, and scalp. Her vocal box was ripped, that’s why my niece only heard one yell. Her C1 & C2 were fractured; part of her spinal cord was ripped from her lifeless body. She fought and fought. She suffered from a horrific, sustained, vicious and violent attack at the jaws of a completely unpredictable breed of dog. My mother’s autopsy report shows her wounds to be consistent with defending her grandchild. The report states that my mother was defending her grandchild. My mother is a hero. She saved my nephew’s life.”
Ruth Halleran

And you guys that feed into this shit, and actually support this group, are sick in the head. You are telling bold faced lies based on your own shitty opinions. If you have never owned a pitbull, you don’t have room to say a word. Karma is a bitch, remember that

You and your shitty site can suck a dirty dog dick. You spew hate and misinformation. And you know that you are, but you continue to do so. FUCK you, and I hope you really do get attacked by a dog. Cause that would be Karma.

You do realize you’re proving their point with this comment, right? You’re proving that, like the wretched dogs you defend, you’re showing unprovoked aggression and violence. You’re incapable of making an intelligent statement to defend pitbulls. You jump to foul language, irrational histrionics, and actually hope people get attacked by a dog. You’re clearly mentally ill, or just horribly ignorant. But again, thank you for proving the point that these dogs attract a certain personality. The other comments defending these breeds having the same effect. They all display terrifying ignorance and the inability to intelligently rationalize owning a breed of dog that kill more humans every year than ALL OTHER BREEDS COMBINED. But keep peddling your psychosis. You’re right, Karma is a bitch. Just ask Greg Napora. Maybe you can find him at the gravesite of his wife and unborn child.

I know Dennis Baker and Kaylie and until the tragic accident,if you will I had no idea how viral these attacks are. I just moved to Nevada and am shocked how many of these brutal and fatal attacks take place out in this desert. Parents, everyone be aware and pay close attention. Our children and Elders are being targeted daily.Please protect yourselves and your precios loved ones and neighbors too. God Bless

I am sickened by some of these comments. Stop humanizing this breed as if it knew or felt a certain way. These dogs snap. It’s im their nature. And in no way in any of these cases is it the victim’s fault! My God. How can any of you making these comments be so cruel and heartless. These are people’s children. They did not ask for any of this. You may be singing a different tune if it were your own child.
Yes, maybe you have a family pitt that is sweet and innocent. And that is wonderful. But unfortunately for these victim’s they got the dog who’s instincts that day were to kill. Not all dogs can inflict this much damage. This is one of the biggest arguements. If you have small children, why even risk it?? Honestly I was at Mclean County animal shelter in September 2015 looking at a 2yr old pittbull named Niko. My husband loved him, my 11yr old and 8yr old loved him. My 7yr old hmmm? That’s where I paused. And then the man there told me this story of this angel on her 4th birthday being mauled to death by the family pitt. I looked it up. Balled my eyes out and decided against it. I want to thank YOU. I feel like you saved my Children. Possibly, hey. We will never know. After a horrific story like that I wasn’t willing to find out either. Thank you.

Hey, look you guys! Another super intelligent comment from a pit bull owner! Only this person actually sank to the lowest form of human existence. You literally made a joke about the death of a beautiful, innocent baby. You have also proven the point that most pit owners are sick, depraved, and not worthy of living in a civil society. You and your worthless dogs are a threat to the health and safety of normal people. Hopefully your “wiggle butt pibble” rips your penis off (if you actually have one – which is debatable) so you never bring children into your sick world.

jamie : great way to promote a breed of dog saying ” one less little shit using up my land sharks ( my definition ) oxygen , too bad it wasnt you .” god , pitbull owners are worse than their ugly dogs and thats putting it mildly .